Ah, beans and rice... who doesn't? But if you, like me, love trying new flavors and discovering different recipes, then you need to try string beans! This northeastern delicacy is a real explosion of flavor and is sure to win over your taste buds.
String beans: Discover the deliciousness of this Brazilian dish.
String beans are a typical Brazilian dish, more specifically from the Northeast, and are made with refried beans, a smaller, light-colored type of bean. It is cooked with ingredients such as onions, garlic, tomatoes and dried meat, resulting in a tasty, well-seasoned stew.
Now that you know what string beans are all about, let's find out more about their origin and benefits!
Main Conclusions
- String beans are a typical delicacy of northeastern Brazil.
- Made with refried beans and ingredients such as onion, garlic, tomato and dried meat.
- It's a very tasty and well-seasoned dish.
What are string beans?
Hello, readers! If you haven't heard of string beans yet, get ready to discover a delicious and typical Brazilian dish. As I love cooking and discovering new flavors, I was enchanted by the history and benefits of this ingredient. Shall we get started?
Feijão de corda, as its name suggests, is a type of bean that looks like a rope. It is widely grown in the north-east of Brazil and is a key ingredient in the region's cuisine. Although its name is "bean", Feijão de corda is actually a pod with seeds inside.
String beans are known by various other names, depending on the region of the country. Some call it "feijão fradinho", "feijão-de-corda", "algaroba", "carrapicho", among others. Despite the different names, it's important to note that it's the same ingredient.
Anyone who has tried string beans knows that they have a unique texture, with a mild and slightly sweet flavor. What's more, it's rich in nutrients and has many health benefits. Let's continue discovering more about this fascinating ingredient.
What are string beans?
It is a great snack or breakfast option that is packed with nutrients and will help satisfy your hunger. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking. String beans is a legume that originated in Africa and is very popular in northeastern Brazil. It is a pod with bean-shaped seeds inside. With a mild, slightly sweet flavor, string beans are used in a variety of recipes, whether as a main dish or as a side dish.
Origin and history
Feijão de corda is a traditional Brazilian dish that has its origins on the African continent, in countries such as Angola, Congo and Sudan. It was brought to Brazil by African slaves during the colonial period and quickly became one of the most popular foods in the country.
But the popularity of string beans is not restricted to Brazil. In fact, it is also widely consumed in other countries, such as the United States, Portugal, Spain and Italy. In the United States, for example, the dish is known as "black-eyed peas" and is traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve, as it is believed to bring luck and prosperity.
String beans and popular culture
Feijão de corda is more than just a typical Brazilian dish. It is part of popular culture, present in songs, films, series and books. Who hasn't heard of the classic Brazilian song "Que país é esse?" (What kind of country is this?) by Legião Urbana, which has a line that says "They planted land in the future of Brazil, where the dream is a plant that sprouts faster than string beans".
"Feijão de corda, Feijão de corda, Feijão de corda, my love I realized, USP and cervejinha was just to win me over".
String beans also have their place in Brazilian literature. In Rachel de Queiroz's "O Quinze", the author describes the poverty of the Brazilian Northeast and the difficulty of finding food to eat. In one passage, she talks about how string beans were one of the few foods available and how they were prepared by the sertanejos.
Today, Feijão de corda is still a very present dish in Brazilian culture, being eaten in various regions of the country and on various occasions, from family lunches to large parties.
health benefits
As well as tasting amazing, string beans are an extremely beneficial food for your health. Firstly, they are a great source of vegetable protein, making them a great substitute for meat and a healthy option for vegetarians and vegans.
In addition, string beans are rich in fiber, which helps regulate bowel function and contributes to the feeling of satiety, aiding the weight loss process.
Studies also show that regular consumption of string beans can reduce LDL cholesterol, the so-called "bad" cholesterol, preventing cardiovascular disease. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help fight premature cell aging.
And it doesn't stop there! String beans are also an excellent source of B vitamins, iron and potassium. In other words, by eating this Brazilian delicacy, you're taking care of your health in many ways.
"String beans: the best friend of my heart and my gut!"
Nutritional table
Now that we know what the delicious string bean is and its history, let's delve into the benefits it can bring to our health.
| Nutrient | Quantity per 100g |
|---|---|
| calories | 49 kcal |
| Proteins | 3,1 g |
| carbohydrates | 8,8 g |
| Total fat | 0,3 g |
| Saturated fats | 0.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2,2 g |
| Calcium | 34 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Sodium | 3 mg |
As we can see, string beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber and iron, as well as being low in fat and sodium. It is a very complete and nutritious food that should be included in our diet.
And did you know that regular consumption of string beans helps reduce bad cholesterol and control diabetes? With so many benefits, there's no excuse not to try this Brazilian delight!
Curiosities about String Beans
When we talk about beans, we immediately think of the famous black beans, but Feijão de Corda is a typical dish from northeastern Brazil that deserves to be celebrated. And, like any traditional dish, it has its curiosities.
"If nothing goes right in life, at least I know I'm good at picking string beans."
I'm passionate about this dish and have tried several variations. In fact, it is said that the origin of the name "Feijão de Corda" is linked to the way the beans were transported in the past, tied up in ropes.
But did you know that string beans are very rich in protein, fiber and nutrients? This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy and balanced diet.
And for those who like to cook, there are many interesting recipes using string beans. One of my favorites is Baião de Dois, which mixes these delicious beans with rice.
If you've never tried string beans, you don't know what you're missing! Don't waste time and try this wonderful Brazilian dish.
Interesting recipes
Who says string beans can only be beans? Have you ever tried making a string bean burger? It's a delicious and different way to consume this legume.
| Ingredients: | Method of preparation: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups cooked string beans | 1. Place the string beans in a bowl and mash with a fork. 2. Add 1/2 chopped red onion, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of cumin. 3. mix until you have a homogeneous dough. 4. shape the mixture into burgers and fry in a pan with hot oil until golden brown. |
| 1/2 chopped red onion | – |
| 1/2 cup breadcrumbs | – |
| 2 tablespoons of lemon juice | – |
| 2 tablespoons of olive oil | – |
| 1 teaspoon cumin | – |
Another option is the string bean salad with corn and tomatoes, ideal for warmer days.
| Ingredients: | Method of preparation: |
|---|---|
| 2 cups cooked string beans | 1. Place the string beans in a bowl. 2. Add 1 can of drained green corn and 1 chopped tomato. 3. season with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste. 4. mix everything together and serve immediately. |
| 1 can of drained green corn | – |
| 1 chopped tomato | – |
| Olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste | – |
So, did you like these suggestions for recipes with string beans? Share in the comments which one you're going to try first!
Side dish for your string beans
When it comes to accompanying string beans, my tip is a classic combination: white rice and a nice green salad. White rice is a classic option and goes perfectly with the flavor of the beans. The salad brings freshness and balance to the dish, as well as being a great option for those looking for a healthier meal.
But if you want to dare a little more, my suggestion is a cassava puree to accompany string beans. The sweet taste and creamy texture of the cassava complement the creaminess of the beans very well. And to finish, a pepper sauce to give it that spicy touch that only Brazilians appreciate.
Whichever side dish you choose, I'm sure your string beans will be even more delicious.
Regional variations
One of the most interesting things about Feijão de corda is that it is prepared in different ways all over Brazil. Each region has its own version of the dish, with different ingredients and spices, making it a very versatile dish rich in flavors.
In the Northeast, for example, Feijão de corda is usually prepared with dried meat, jerky or Calabrian sausage, as well as onions, garlic, tomatoes and peppers. In Minas Gerais, the recipe includes chopped cabbage and pork ribs. In Goiás, it is common to add the duo of rice and chicken, as well as smoked sausage.
In Bahia, Feijão de corda is cooked with the famous dendê, which is a type of oil extracted from the pulp of the fruit of the palm tree called dendêzeiro and a typical ingredient in Bahian cuisine. The dish also includes dried shrimp, coconut milk, paprika, coriander and other spices typical of the region.
In São Paulo, string beans are usually accompanied by white rice, braised cabbage, manioc and a good dose of pepper. In Pernambuco, the dish is served with fried cassava, paçoca and carne do sol.
As you can see, there are so many regional variations of Feijão de corda that it's impossible to describe them all here. Each region adds its own ingredients and spices, creating delicious and unique dishes.
Storage Tips
Once you've prepared your delicious string beans, it's important to store them correctly to maintain their flavor and quality. Here are some useful tips:
- Keep the string beans in an airtight container to prevent air and moisture from entering.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- If you've cooked too much or have leftovers, put them in the fridge in a sealed container.
- String beans can be frozen for up to six months. Place them in a freezer-safe container and remove the air before sealing.
Remember that string beans are a perishable food, so check regularly for signs of spoilage and discard if necessary.
And now that you know how to store string beans properly, there's no excuse not to have this wonderful dish on the table whenever you want! Check out an image of the nutritional table for string beans below:
| Portion | Daily value |
|---|---|
| 1 cup (177g) | %VD* |
| calories | 198 |
| Total fat | 0.7g |
| Sodium | 4mg |
| Total carbohydrates | 36g |
| Dietary fibers | 11g |
| Proteins | 13g |
| Iron | 23% |
| Phosphor | 21% |
| Thiamine | 14% |
| Vitamin B6 | 11% |
| folate | 33% |
Conclusion
Well, guys, now that you know all the wonders of string beans, I can only say that it's worth giving them a try! It's a delicious dish and full of health benefits.
Remember that Feijão de Corda can be found in several regional variations all over Brazil, and each one has its own special touch. So be sure to try out the different recipes and side dishes that can make your experience with this dish even tastier.
And don't forget to store it properly so you can enjoy all its flavor and nutrients for longer!
Anyway, I hope you've enjoyed finding out a bit more about this much-loved Brazilian dish. Take the opportunity to try it and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Common questions
What are string beans?
Feijão de corda is a traditional Brazilian dish made with string beans, also known as feijão fradinho. It is a very popular dish in the north-eastern and northern regions of Brazil.
What is the origin and history of string beans?
Feijão de corda has African origins and was brought to Brazil during the time of slavery. Over the years, the dish has become an important part of Brazilian cuisine, especially in the regions mentioned.
What are the health benefits of string beans?
String beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber and B vitamins. It also contains minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium, making it a nutritious and healthy food.
What is the nutritional table for string beans?
The nutritional table for string beans can vary a little, but generally a 100 gram portion cooked contains approximately 120 calories, 8 grams of protein, 2 grams of fat and 21 grams of carbohydrates.
What fun facts are there about string beans?
The name "string beans" arose from the fact that, during the drying process, the beans were tied up in ropes to make them easier to store. Feijão de corda is also a widely used ingredient in Northeastern cuisine and is present in many typical dishes.
What are some interesting recipes using string beans?
There are many interesting recipes using string beans, such as Acarajé, Vatapá, Baião de dois and the famous Feijão tropeiro. You can explore new flavors and try typical Brazilian dishes using string beans as the main ingredient.
What's the best side dish for string beans?
A delicious side dish for Feijão de corda is to serve it with white rice, farofa and a meat of your choice. This combination will make a complete and tasty meal.
What are the regional variations of string beans?
String beans vary from region to region in Brazil. In the Northeast, it is commonly served as part of the typical Northeastern dish, with cassava, sun-dried meat and other accompaniments. In the North, it can be used in the famous Tacacá, the region's typical soup.
What is the best way to store string beans?
To store string beans, we recommend storing them in airtight jars or tightly sealed plastic bags in a cool, dry place. This way you can keep it for longer without it losing its characteristics.
Verônica Ribeiro, the creative mind behind “Cozinha da Vê”, is passionate about flavors and aromas and transforms her passion for cooking into irresistible recipes. With a unique ability to combine ingredients and a special touch of affection in each dish, she conquers hearts and palates, making cooking a truly delicious experience on her blog.
